What it means
A freeloader is that mate who always shows up hungry, thirsty, and mysteriously broke. They’ll rinse the snacks, enjoy the drinks, sleep on your sofa, then go fully wallet-ghost when it’s time to chip in. It’s usually said with annoyance or a laugh, for someone who lives off other people’s money, food, or hospitality without giving much back.
Usage examples
"Gaz turned up with nowt, inhaled the crisps, necked three pints, then nipped off to the bog right as the bill landed. Absolute freeloader."
"He is a total freeloader, he never once bought a round all year."
"They treated the hotel breakfast like freeloaders, piling up plates to take away."
"Don’t invite Tyler unless you fancy funding his whole night. Man’s a shameless freeloader."
"She rocked up to the barbecue empty-handed, filled a plate like a champion, then dipped before anyone mentioned splitting costs. Proper freeloader."
Where it comes from
Freeloader is old American English. It shows up in the early 1900s and joins free with loader, first for someone getting a free ride, board, or transport. After that it broadened nicely into the classic sponger who eats, drinks, crashes at yours, and somehow turns invisible when it's their turn to pay.
Other ways to say it
Editors of this term
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